The Celestial Tome Pavilion was a sacred place where the heavenly scriptures were stored. Though it was unguarded, the moment one approached the entrance, the curtain would lift on its own.
Inside, a spacious writing desk came into view. Seated before it was a middle-aged man clad in ceremonial robes embroidered with the sun, moon, and stars. A pearl-adorned crown with flowing tassels rested upon his head. His pale face was framed by a black beard, and his imposing features exuded an air of authority.
Jin Xiu stepped forward and bowed. “Your Majesty has summoned me in haste—may I ask the reason?”
The Celestial Emperor continued to gaze at the golden script before him, raising a hand in a gesture of invitation. “Must there always be a reason? Can my junior brother not visit simply because he wishes to?”
Jin Xiu lowered his head slightly, smiling. “I would not dare.”
Just as he sat down, a noblewoman adorned in grand attire entered from outside. Her lips were like crimson petals, and her eyebrows arched gracefully like a moth’s wings. Carrying a teacup in both hands, she smiled as she spoke.
“This is the finest Green Lotus Jade Dew from the Jade Pool. Try it, Lord of the Middle Heavens—how does it compare to the Hundred Flowers Immortal Brew of your realm?”
Jin Xiu inclined himself slightly. “I would not dare trouble Your Majesty.”
“You are too formal, Lord of the Middle Heavens,” she said, setting the tea down before retreating to stand beside the Celestial Emperor.
With a wave of his hand, the golden script before the emperor vanished without a trace. He regarded Jin Xiu with a meaningful expression.
“If I recall correctly, my junior brother has overseen the affairs of the floral realm for nearly ten thousand years.”
Jin Xiu replied, “I am honored by Your Majesty’s concern. Six years remain.”
The Celestial Emperor nodded. “And how fares your cultivation?”
“I would not dare be negligent,” Jin Xiu answered.
Only then did the Celestial Emperor nod in satisfaction, sighing softly. “When the day comes for you to reclaim your divine rank, a trial will inevitably follow. With your mastery, overcoming it should not be difficult. What concerns me is…” He paused.
Jin Xiu said calmly, “All shall follow the will of the heavens. Your Majesty need not worry.”
The Celestial Emperor was silent for a moment before speaking again. “Since your departure, the Middle Heavens has remained unguarded. Do not disappoint me.”
“If I succeed in the future, I will naturally share Your Majesty’s burdens,” Jin Xiu replied.
The Celestial Emperor seemed pleased. “I have summoned you today to discuss something.”
“I am honored to listen,” Jin Xiu said.
The Celestial Emperor glanced at him, half in jest. “I see that you are always alone, which must be inconvenient at times. Since you are soon to return to your divine position, why not let me choose a consort for you?”
Jin Xiu was caught off guard.
The Celestial Emperor turned to his beloved consort and gestured. “Tell him.”
The Celestial Consort suppressed a smile. “The King of the Northern Realm has a daughter who was granted the title of Celestial Maiden of Northern Yao in her youth. She is exceptionally beautiful and intelligent. Moreover, the King of the Northern Realm has ruled the Northern Immortal Realm for many years and often speaks highly of you. The Celestial Maiden frequently inquires about you through me, expressing great concern. His Majesty intends to betroth her to you—what do you think, Lord of the Middle Heavens?”
Jin Xiu returned to his senses and smiled. “I will follow Your Majesty’s decision.”
The Celestial Emperor and the Celestial Consort exchanged a glance and both sighed in relief.
The Celestial Emperor said, “Then I shall issue the decree at once.”
Jin Xiu shook his head. “How can such a matter be decided in haste? I have yet to reclaim my position, and the heavenly tribulation is near. I originally intended to devote myself fully to cultivation for the next few years—I fear I will not have the time…”
The Celestial Emperor interrupted him. “That is of no concern. I will settle the betrothal first. Once you have returned to the Middle Heavens Palace, the formal wedding rites can be completed.”
Jin Xiu said, “I do not yet know the Celestial Maiden’s wishes…”
The Celestial Emperor chuckled. “There’s no need for excuses. The Celestial Maiden of Northern Yao has waited for you for twenty thousand years—do not think I am unaware.”
Seeing there was no room for further argument, Jin Xiu merely smiled. “How could I refuse Your Majesty’s kind arrangement? I am deeply grateful.”
The Celestial Consort laughed from the side. “This was actually my idea. Lord of the Middle Heavens, do not blame me for meddling. His Majesty has only one junior brother, and he is deeply invested in your future. He constantly worries that something unforeseen might happen when you ascend again. So I thought to remind him—the Northern Immortal Realm is known for its unique immortal arts, which perfectly complement our sect’s weaknesses. With the Celestial Maiden of Northern Yao at your side, facing the tribulation will be much easier.”
“I understand. I appreciate Your Majesty’s consideration,” Jin Xiu said calmly. “I will abide by His Majesty’s decision.”
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